Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki has reiterated that the official death toll from the recent nationwide anti-Finance Bill protests stands at 25, with an additional 400 people injured, including 43 police officers.
Speaking on Citizen TV, Kindiki emphasized that these figures are based on their comprehensive assessment and accountability procedures.
“I have presented and briefed the Cabinet on the recent events in our country, and part of our findings indicate that we have lost 25 individuals in very unfortunate circumstances. Nearly 400 others sustained injuries, including 43 of our police officers,” Kindiki stated.
Addressing discrepancies in reported figures, Kindiki acknowledged hearing higher casualty counts but cautioned against misinformation, citing an example where reports of a massacre in Githurai were later proven false.
“I don’t want to cast doubt on anyone, but I want to assure Kenyans that we have documented 25 fatalities,” Kindiki affirmed.
His comments come amidst conflicting reports from organizations like the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC), which confirmed 41 deaths and over 360 injuries primarily attributed to police actions during the protests. The KHRC also reported 627 arrests linked to the demonstrations.
On July 1, the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) had earlier documented 39 deaths and 361 injuries across various locations including Nairobi, Nakuru, Laikipia, Narok, Kajiado, Uasin Gishu, Kakamega, Kisumu, Kisii, Mombasa, Siaya, Kiambu, and Nandi.
In response to allegations of police brutality, Kindiki assured the public that any claims of excessive force would be thoroughly investigated, with accountable officers facing appropriate consequences.